Mensa AG 2018

Looking Back, Thinking Forward: The Living Legacy of America's Hoosier President (Room JW Grand Ballroom 2)

05 Jul 18
10:30 AM - 11:45 AM

Tracks: Speaker

Speaker(s): Charles Hyde, President & CEO, Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site

Renowned historian James Madison recently asserted that “Harrison's administration is considered to be among the most activist and reform minded of the 19th century.” As 23rd president of the United States, Benjamin Harrison advocated for African American voting rights, set aside 13 million acres of federal land for conservation, initiated the two-ocean navy for national defense, hired the first woman onto White House staff, and signed the Sherman Antitrust Act. He presided over the first billion-dollar federal budget, admitted six states to the Union, and first adopted the pledge of allegiance. While many of his reform efforts were stymied by an intractable Congress, he is increasingly understood as one of the first “modern” presidents for his strong ethical stance and foresight. His legacy of leadership has been carried forward to today and has helped shape our national consciousness in compelling and unexpected ways. For more information, visit presidentbenjaminharrison.org.